Instructor Class Description

Writing in Comparative Literature

Comparative approach to literature and a workshop in writing comparative papers in English. Emphasis on cross-cultural comparison of literary works. Readings in English with an option to read selected texts in the original languages Offered: AWSp.

Class description

This course is an introduction to film analysis and writing about films. The course will help students analyze film form and style, develop arguments, evaluate their own writing as well as that of their own colleagues, and use feedback to revise their drafts.

We will learn how to create persuasive arguments, which means learning how to turn initial responses into specific, arguable claims. We will also learn how to support those claims with appropriate evidence, and then place those claims in conversation with other scholars and writers.

The course is designed with the premise that writing is a process and furthermore, it is a powerful mode of learning, thinking, and communicating. Writing, and being self-aware of ourselves as writers, is an activity that allows us to pose questions, clarify thoughts, and make connections we would not otherwise.

Films and film clips will be wide-ranging in style, genre, period, and may include films like Sherlock, Jr, Rope, Blue Velvet, Don't Look Now, The Conversation, Dawn of the Dead.

The course does not require any prior knowledge of film analysis.

Student learning goals

Learn, through writing, about film studies as a discipline.

See writing as a process which requires us to revise our written work as well as our ideas

Write thoughtfully and persuasively about the texts we read and the films we view by creating and defending complex, narrowly defined, arguable claims.

General method of instruction

lecture, discussion, screening

Recommended preparation

No prior knowledge of film is necessary for this course.

Class assignments and grading

The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Last Update by Sudhir Mahadevan
Date: 04/15/2011

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Modified:April 23, 2014